Narrative:The flight was executing the non-precision NDB approach to runway 04 at Gainesville (GVL), had reported procedure turn inbound, and was cleared to change to advisory frequency. Witnesses observed the airplane descend out of the base of the overcast clouds in a 10 degree nose down, 45 degree left wing down attitude. the airplane impacted terrain SSE of the airport. Witnesses in the area reported that the weather was ceilings of about 100 feet and visibility of about 500 feet in light rain and fog. The minimum descent altitude for the approach is 465 feet agl.

PROBABLE CAUSE: "The pilots failure to maintain the minimum descent altitude during the approach. the weather and dark night light condition were factors."

This map shows the airport of departure and the intended destination of the flight. The line between the airports does not display the exact flight path. Distance from Savannah International Airport, GA to Gainesville-Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport, GA as the crow flies is 339 km (212 miles).